TODAY’S HOLIDAY: BIRTHDAY OF RUNEBERG

Johan Ludvig Runeberg (1804-1877) is widely regarded as Finland’s greatest poet. Schools throughout Finland are closed on Runeberg’s birthday. Busts and pictures of him are displayed in shop windows, particularly inHelsinki. A special ceremony is observed at Runeberg’s monument in the Esplanade, where his statue is decorated with garlands of pine and spruce, suspended between four huge torches. At night the torches are lit, and lighted candles burn in the windows of houses and apartments. More…Discuss